The harmony of tradition and innovation in R. Otarbayev’s work was discussed

At the Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University, a republican scientific and practical conference was held on the topic “The Work of Rakhymzhan Otarbayev: Tradition and Innovation – 2.”
Rakhymzhan Otarbayev is a prominent figure in Kazakh literature. His works deeply reflect national spirituality, historical consciousness, and moral values.
The main goal of the conference, organized by the “Rakhymzhan Otarbayev Spirituality Fund,” was to study the writer’s literary heritage, conduct a detailed analysis of his creative path, and provide young researchers and students with an opportunity to engage with scholarly opinions in the field of literary studies.
The discussions at the event focused on the balance between tradition and innovation in Otarbayev’s works, his contribution to national literature, and his place in contemporary Kazakh dramaturgy.“This is the second day of the scientific-practical conference dedicated to the work of R. Otarbayev in our city. A group of writers has arrived for the conference. Scholars from Karaganda, Taraz, Turkestan, Almaty, and Astana are participating, starting with our fellow countryman, scholar Maksat Tazh-Murat. They are all united by the work of R. Otarbayev,” says the writer’s wife, Saule Otarbayeva.
This scientific-practical conference was attended by the Honored Worker of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Candidate of Philological Sciences, writer-publicist Maksat Tazh-Murat, Professor of Toraigyrov University, Director of the Pavlodar branch of the Writers’ Union of Kazakhstan Serik Elikbai, Lecturer at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University Alibek Baibol, Vice-Rector for Strategic Development of Bolashaq Academy, PhD Doctor Adil Zhakulayev, Teacher of Kazakh Language and Literature at School-Lyceum No. 28 in Turkestan Arkalyk Amaliyatuly, Associate Professor of M. Otemisov West Kazakhstan University Rita Sultangaliyeva, Master of Literary Studies Ainur Toleu, Journalist and Writer Ardak Useinova, as well as distinguished and young scholars in literary studies, writers, and journalists researching literary theory and the heritage of Kazakh literature.
“The essence of every word ultimately lies in literature, and within it, there are immovable characters. R. Otarbayev’s story SOR is a work that cannot be fully grasped upon first reading; it does not immediately allow one to delve into it. It is a piece that leaves you stunned. A person unfamiliar with the world of artistic expression may initially find it perplexing, but sooner or later, they will inevitably immerse themselves in it. Rakhymzhan Otarbayev is not just a regional writer - he is an author who pondered the future of the Kazakh people and wished for the continuation of their history,” says Serik Elikbai, Director of the Pavlodar branch of the Writers’ Union of Kazakhstan.
During the conference, discussions focused on the traditional values and innovative elements in the writer’s works, his place in literature, and the distinctive features of his dramaturgy and prose. “The fact that Rakhymzhan Otarbayev’s works are not only translated into foreign languages but also become subjects of scientific analysis proves that he is an artist of his time. The very study of his works within the framework of the question What is the current state of Kazakh life and unity? indicates the high academic recognition of his contributions,” noted Ainur Toleu, a Master of Literary Studies.
At the end of the event, participants emphasized that Rakhymzhan Otarbayev’s literary legacy holds a special place in Kazakh literature. They highlighted his crucial role in shaping national consciousness and educating the younger generation while also putting forward several proposals.